U.S. and Iran Near 14-Point Deal to De-escalate Conflict

The United States and Iran are reportedly close to finalizing a 14-point memorandum of understanding aimed at ending the regional conflict that escalated in late February 2026. The agreement would initiate a 30-day window for detailed negotiations on nuclear enrichment caps, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and the lifting of U.S. sanctions.

Negotiations have been facilitated by Pakistani mediators, with Trump administration envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff leading the American side. As of May 7, Iran was reviewing the latest U.S. proposal and was expected to respond within 48 hours.

The $344 million digital asset freeze by the U.S. Treasury in April underscores the growing intersection of sanctions compliance and cryptocurrency. Iranian networks have increasingly used digital assets to circumvent traditional financial restrictions, but blockchain analytics have enabled enforcement agencies to track and freeze such funds.

For investors, any credible path toward stabilizing the Strait of Hormuz could put downward pressure on oil prices. The outcome of the 48-hour response window will set the tone for markets in the weeks ahead.